Abstract The specification and drawings disclose a multiple latch assembly particularly suited for use in contoured vehicle doors. The disclosed assembly includes a plurality of latch members each having an outwardly biased latch pin. Operatively connected to all of the latch pins is a common operating assembly including a case defining a cavity and a handle pivotally mounted between the sides of the cavity. A slide member is carried on the case and interconnects with the handle so that oscillation of the handle produces reciprocation of the slide member. Lengths of flexible actuating cable are connected between the slide member and each of the latch pins. Each length of cable is arranged so that movement of the slide member in one direction will produce simultaneous inward movement of all latch pins.
In combination, a door having an inner surface, an outer surface, at least four edges and hinge means along onE of said edges, latch means located along at least two of said edges, each of said latch means including a pin member mounted for reciprocation and continually maintained under a bias in a direction outwardly of said edges, operating means for withdrawing all of said pin members simultaneously including, a housing mounted in one of said surfaces and in a plane different from a plane containing at least one of said latch means and operatively connected to a slide member such that oscillation of said lever produces reciprocation of said slide member; and lengths of flexible cable connected between said slide member and each of said pin members.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
128 words
In combination, a door having an inner surface, an outer surface, at least four edges and hinge means along onE of said edges, latch means located along at least two of said edges, each of said latch means including a pin member mounted for reciprocation and continually maintained under a bias in a direction outwardly of said edges, operating means for withdrawing all of said pin members simultaneously including, a housing mounted in one of said surfaces and in a plane different from a plane containing at least one of said latch means and operatively connected to a slide member such that oscillation of said lever produces reciprocation of said slide member; and lengths of flexible cable connected between said slide member and each of said pin members.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
27 words
The combination as defined in claim 1 wherein each of said latch means further includes a base plate and a guideway in which said pin members reciprocate.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
23 words
The combination as defined in claim 1 including guide means positioned between said operating means and at least one of said latch means.